Be sure to plan early for prime parties and the best viewing areas for fireworks. Some venues charge admission, and tickets sometimes sell out months ahead.

So let the countdown begin. Here are 3 great places where you can travel for a New Year's Eve you'll never forget:

Hong Kong

The dramatic skyline in Hong Kong provides a sight visitors never forget, and New Year's Eve fireworks just up the ante. The fireworks that illuminate stunning Victoria Harbour are set to music.

You might catch the dazzling display from one of Hong Kong's many hotels with great views, including Hotel Icon and Park Lane. Crowds gather a couple of hours early at Star Ferry Pier (Tsim Sha Tsui) for some theater, dance and circus performances.

While you're in Hong Kong, you may also want to take in Ocean Park, a favorite amusement area.

Bangkok

Bangkok often tops roundup lists of Asia's best nightlife cities. So of course, it's a natural place to ring in the new year if you like crowds, noise and revelry.

Bangkok's answer to Times Square, CentralWorld Plaza is one of the main gathering spots for celebrations. Another popular gathering spot is the Asiatique shopping and entertainment area along the Chao Phraya River.

You may want to continue the celebration at one of Bangkok's stunning bars such as Red Sky or a sky-high restaurant such as Sirocco.

Dubai

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai is one of the most attention-grabbing skyscrapers in the world, and it's only more so at New Year's Eve. As it brings in 2019, the Burj Khalifa holds the record for world's tallest building (2,716.5 feet), and throngs gather at the footsteps to welcome a new year with an amazing fireworks show. Not too far away, Burj Plaza is a little quieter and popular with families.

Dubai is building a reputation as a major food destination, so you may wish to indulge in top-tier restaurants such as Cavalli Club Dubai while you're there.

And if you have shopping in mind, check out Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest.